Vice President of Finance, Operations and Human Resources

The Vice President of Finance, Operations and Human Resources at Wartburg Theological Seminary provides executive-level leadership across finance, operations, and human resources, safeguarding fiscal integrity, operational effectiveness, and HR strategy. Onsite in Dubuque, Iowa, this role serves as Treasurer to the Board and as a trusted advisor to senior leadership.

Responsibilities

• Provide overarching management of all financial functions, including accounting, budgeting, payroll, accounts payable and receivable, and regular financial reporting
• Direct the annual budgeting cycle, forecasts, and long-term financial planning initiatives
• Maintain compliance with GAAP, applicable regulations, and internal control frameworks
• Prepare annual reports for government agencies, ecclesiastical bodies, and accreditation entities
• Oversee endowment and investment portfolios and sustain external financial relationships
• Develop and present financial analyses for executive leadership, the board, and external stakeholders
• Lead the annual audit process and ensure timely completion
• Monitor cash flow, asset levels, debt, and overall financial health of the seminary
• Provide leadership for Facilities, Technology, the Business Office, Food Service, and related administrative functions to support operations
• Ensure operations are efficient, cost-conscious, and deliver high-quality service
• Manage risk, insurance programs, and campus-related activities
• Develop and implement policies, systems, and process improvements to boost organizational effectiveness
• Maintain current training in Jenzabar and serve as a primary institutional resource for the platform
• Oversee human resources activities including recruitment, employee relations, benefits, compliance, and performance management
• Ensure compliance with employment laws, policies, and best practices
• Support organizational design, workforce planning, and talent development initiatives
• Foster a positive, inclusive, and high-performing workplace culture
• Act as Treasurer to the Board and serve as liaison to the Finance and Operations committee
• Prepare and present financial and strategic materials to the Board and executive leadership
• Contribute to institutional planning, policy development, and broader strategic initiatives
• Advise the President on financial, administrative, and operational matters with discretion and judgment

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Finance, Accounting, Business Administration or related field; a Master's degree is strongly preferred
• Professional certification such as CPA or CFA is preferred
• 7 to 10 plus years of progressive leadership experience spanning finance, operations, and HR
• Solid knowledge of GAAP, financial planning, and organizational management
• Experience with investments and endowments and in budgeting processes
• Prior experience in higher education or nonprofit settings is highly desirable
• Proficiency with financial and HR systems such as Jenzabar and Paylocity or similar platforms
• Understanding of seminary or church-related institutions is a plus
• Strategic thinker with strong financial and analytical skills
• Proven leadership ability across diverse functional areas
• Excellent communication and presentation capabilities, including interactions with the Board
• High integrity, confidentiality, and sound judgment
• Collaborative, mission-driven leader capable of guiding organizational change

Technologies

• Jenzabar
• Paylocity

Benefits

• 403(b) retirement plan
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Paid time off

Work Environment & Expectations

The position operates in a professional office setting with broad organizational interaction. Occasional evening or weekend work may be required. The role requires the ability to manage multiple priorities, maintain confidentiality, and may involve extended periods of sitting or standing, with occasional lifting up to 10 pounds. Reasonable accommodations can be arranged.

To Apply

Submit your application by emailing [email protected] with a resume, a statement describing your interest in Wartburg Theological Seminary, and three professional references.